Pawfully good show as council wins dog warden award

As well as recognising the day-to-day work of the dog warden service in collecting stray dogs and ensuring they are either reclaimed by their owners or re-homed, the award also recognises the dog warden’s educational and preventative campaigns

For the third year in a row the dog warden service has been given a prestigious Gold Footprint award for its work with stray dogs.

The gold award, which is the highest possible accolade, was presented by the RSPCA to the borough council for its top procedures in place to ensure both the welfare of stray dogs and a consistency of service.

As well as recognising the day-to-day work of the dog warden service in collecting stray dogs and ensuring they are either reclaimed by their owners or re-homed, the award also recognises the dog warden’s educational and preventative campaigns, which are designed to reduce straying in the first instance, such as microchipping and neutering.

The award also recognises the high quality animal welfare advice and support the dog warden service provides to borough residents.

During 2013, 185 stray dogs were caught by the dog warden, who also dealt with 189 complaints about barking dogs during the year.

Rob Parkinson, the council’s chief officer for environmental health, said: “The dog warden service at Hinckley and Bosworth is a team effort and recognition is given to all involved and in particular the council’s dog warden Anne McDonald, who this year marked her 25 years service at Hinckley and Bosworth.

“Special recognition is also given to our partners Leicestershire Animal Aid and Blaby District Council.”

The council have also worked to ensure dog owners are educated about being responsible owners and have held initiatives such as school talks, with 12 being given across the borough last year.

Councillor David Gould, executive member responsible for the Environment, said: “We all love the pets that we have, and it’s great to know that the borough council is there to help us when our dogs have gone missing, and to help prevent this occurring in the first place. It is a real testament to the team that the council has received a Gold Footprint award, and an accolade to the hard work that goes on day in, day out.”

An RSPCA spokesman added: “It is pleasing to see that, in spite of the tough economic climate faced by local authorities, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council has maintained a commitment to animal welfare and the provision of stray dog services.”